Kawhi Leonard reportedly wants to end his NBA career with the Raptors, making Toronto his preferred destination after the Clippers declined to offer him a long-term contract extension this offseason.
According to reports, Leonard’s comfort with Toronto’s front office, his appreciation for the city, and his belief that the Raptors can contend in the Eastern Conference all played key roles in his decision.
Although he initially hoped to remain with the Clippers, his representatives informed teams that Toronto was the only franchise he would commit to long term if traded.
If a deal is completed, Leonard would become eligible to sign a two-year, $123.7 million extension with the Raptors.
Leonard spent one memorable season in Toronto after being acquired from the Spurs in 2018, leading the franchise to its first NBA championship and earning Finals MVP honors before departing for the Clippers in free agency the following summer.
Despite battling injuries during much of his time in Los Angeles, Leonard is coming off a healthy 2025-26 season in which he earned All-NBA Second Team honors.
The Pistons and Mavericks were also among the teams that expressed interest in acquiring the two-time Finals MVP.
Kawhi Leonard Envisions Retiring With Raptors; Familiarity With Front Office, City Of Toronto Drove Return https://t.co/7coPd1HnQ2
— RealGM (@RealGM) June 30, 2026
